Discover Marseille: A Mediterranean Gem
A full day visiting Marseille!
Coming out of the ship to go into town, you can use the ship shuttle for 17 euros.
While the city bus is a budget-friendly option at 1.50 euros, it’s not without its quirks. You might encounter crowding and the occasional door mishap, but it’s all part of the
Adventure. If you’re up for some excitement, I recommend trying it, or not!!
Instead, we took the free shuttle from the port. This hassle-free and cost-effective mode of transport took us close to downtown, allowing us to stroll along the bustling streets until we reached the Cathedral of La Major.
On our way, we stumbled upon a delightful surprise- the unique local stores.
A quick note: most of these charming establishments are closed on Sundays. However, we were fortunate to find some authentic Marseille soap, a truly unique souvenir of our trip.
Checking out the local sights.
1-The Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure
Walking from where the bus drops us off from the ship is not too far.
The Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-Majeure is located on an esplanade outside the city center, between the Old Port, Le Panier, and La Joliette districts.
It is called the Cathedral of La Major by the locals.
The Cathedral of La Major, a unique testament to Marseille’s rich history, is not just a single church but comprises two churches that have been somehow superimposed: the old and the new Major. It is built on an esplanade at the entrance to the port and close to the base of the original Marseille, where religious buildings have been built since the 4th century.
The Old Major, the oldest church in Marseille, is a testament to the city’s rich history. Its architecture and design reflect the various periods it has witnessed, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts. The historical significance of this place will evoke a sense of reverence and respect in you.
Its historical significance and unique architecture make it a place of great importance and urgency for any traveller.
2-Le Panier District, the oldest district of Marseille
Le Panier is located near the Cathedrale or the Old Port in the city’s historical center.
Le Panier, Marseille’s oldest district, is steeped in history and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The unique and enchanting charm of the narrow streets, vibrant street art, and artisan shops make it a fascinating place to explore.
Exploring Le Panier on foot is a delightful experience. If you plan to wander through the little streets, it’s best to set aside a whole day to appreciate the district’s charm fully.
Walking through the district, you’ll be enveloped by houses packed next to each other, creating an immersive experience you won’t want to miss.
3-Centre de la Vieille Charite
Walking around, you can see the last and rare remains of the medieval period, including the exceptional architecture of the Vieille Charité.
You will find three different museums that you can walk into and visit.
The stone used, the general layout and the tall ceilings of the corridors and rooms make this a unique attraction.
Free Entrance
Walk around and visit for free.
**We ate at the small restaurant close by. It took over an hour to get our lunch. They told us it was Sunday, so!!!
4-Saint Laurent's church
Although the Saint Laurent Church may appear rather plain from the outside, it is worth visiting once you go inside.
It is not far from Fort Saint-Jean, situated on the small hilltop of Saint-Laurent, now known as La Tourette. The Saint Laurent Church overlooks the Old Port.
With its direct access to the MUCEM from the Esplanade de la Tourette and a breathtaking view of Fort Saint-Jean and the sea, visiting this church is a walk that you will particularly appreciate.
5-Vieux-Port (Old Port)
The Old Port of Marseille, known as “Vieux-Port,” is a historic and vibrant area that has been the city’s heart for centuries.
The area is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby attractions, such as the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and the stunning Calanques National Park.
It’s not just a place but a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists.
Enjoy picturesque harbour views, watch fishermen bring in their catch, and take in the lively atmosphere. The Old Port is worth a visit if you’re looking for a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.
6-The Cathedrale
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is an iconic basilica situated on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city. 
It is visible from the port atop the hill. However, it’s too far for me to walk during my visit.
Discovering Marseille
**Local Cuisine
-Bouillabaisse: Traditional Provençal fish stew and where to try it.
-Panisse: Chickpea fritters popular in Marseille.
-Pastis: Anise-flavoured aperitif enjoyed by locals.
**Tips for Travellers
-Getting Around: Public transportation, walking, and boat tours.
-Safety: Stay alert in busy areas.
**Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are suitable for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
**Day Trips from Marseille
-Cassis: A charming fishing village with stunning beaches.
-Aix-en-Provence: Known for its art and markets.
-Arles: Famous for its Roman ruins and connection to Van Gogh.
Visit the street art in Marseille
After wandering for hours and still not managing to cover all the attractions, we reluctantly head back to the ship at the end of the day.
Indeed, Marseille is a city that deserves multiple visits to appreciate its beauty fully.
I’ve never visited Marseille, but once my husband retires, it’s on our list of places to visit. In the meantime, I enjoy reading about it and gathering as much information about it as I can. I love its unique energy, its mix of cultures, the food, and seeing pictures of views from Notre-Dame de la Garde. Thanks for a very informative post!
You welcome. You can pop up on my website anytime for more ideas about where to visit later.
Fantastic guide on visiting Marseille! The photos are stunning. Love how rich in history the area is and how it showcases so well in the photos. I’ve always loved historical looking towns and cities. Thanks for sharing this post!
I love visiting places with old towns and history. I write as much as possible so travellers can understand what to see the first time there. : O)
Although I studied less than two hours from Marseille, I must confess that I’ve never visited the city. Perhaps it’s a sign to visit the next time I’m in the area.
Thanks for sharing!
it is a beautifull places to visit, I want to go back and visit more:O)